Skipper to stay

The national sevens training squad trains at the Uprising Resort grounds in Pacific Harbour yesterday as they prepare for the Las Vegas and Wellington sevens tournaments. Picture: ATU RASEA

BEN Ryan is expected to stick with Osea Kolinisau as the skipper for the national sevens team when he announces his 12-member side for HSBC Sevens World Series tournaments in Las Vegas and Wellington today.

Kolinisau has been Ryan's right hand man ever since the Englishman joined Fiji as sevens head coach.

The ginger-haired Kolinisau was a late injury replacement to the opening leg at the Gold Coast last October, however, he was given the captain's armband by Ryan because of his experience.

Since then, Kolinisau has been the link between the players and Ryan and usually interprets for players to bridge the language barrier.

When asked about his captain to the Las Vegas and Wellington tournaments, Ryan maintained he'll stick with his man.

"I'll still go with Osea (Kolinisau), no need to change that," he said.

The former Ratu Sukuna Memorial School student made his debut on the IRB circuit at the Dubai tournament in 2008.

Other players that are likely to force their way into the final 12 are Emosi Mulevoro, Semi Kunatani, Samisoni Viriviri, Botia, Benito Masilevu, Tuwai, Jonah Tuitoga and Donasio Ratubuli.